Mnemonic Series No. 19: Possible Signs of Suicide Attempt

IS PATH WARM?

I –Ideation

S- Substance Abuse

P - Purposelessness

A - Anxiety

T - Trapped

H - Hopelessness

W - Withdrawal

A - Anger

R - Recklessness

M - Mood Changes

According to WHO, an estimated 877,000 deaths as a result of suicide was recorded in the year 2000. In 2007, there were 2436 cases of suicide at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) alone. (Health and Lifestyle Magazine, March-April issue)

What are the first aid techniques for suicide patients:

1. If the victim slashes his or her wrists, find a towel to put pressure on the wound and stop the bleeding. It is also advised to raise the wound above the chest.

2. If the person hanged him or herself, support the feet and then check the airway.

3. In cases of ingestion of substances, do not induce vomiting. Get the victim away from the source and remove clothing and jewelry.

4. When bringing the victim to the hospital, it is highly recommended that you bring the bottle of the substance that the victim ingested.